The remains of Jonathan Tunde Mark has been laid to rest in his hometown of Otukpo in Benue State – amidst tears.
Fifty-one-year-old Tunde, the first son of former president of the Senate – David Mark, died Oct. 21 in a London hospital following a battle with throat cancer.
The burial rites began Wednesday Nov. 9 with service of songs held in Abuja.
On Thursday, Nov. 10, Tunde’s body was accompanied by family and friends to Otukpo, where a wake was held for him.
And, the following day – Nov. 11, his remains were lowered into the grave at the family compound in Otukpo.
Mark’s tribute to his late son was read by Tunde’s younger siblings, David Mark Jnr and Hon. Blessing Onyeche-Onuh – a member of the Federal House of Representatives.
Most Rev. Fr. Sylvester Onmonke, during the sermon, encouraged the family to have faith in God as only Him holds the power to give and take live.
He urged the parents, family and friends not to lose hope, pointing out that even though Tunde died in his prime, he left a legacy of selfless service to humanity.
Some of the dignitaries who attended the burial were Gov. Samuel Ortom of Benue, his deputy, Benson Abonu, Senate minority leader, Sen. Philip Aduda and Sen. Abba Moro.
Others are former senator representing Nasarawa South, Sen. Suleman Adokwe, former governor of Kogi, Idris Wada, Lekan Mustapha, Bishop Michael Apochi of Otukpo Catholic diocese, Rev Innocent Jooji and many others.
Many of the attendees described Tunde as a humble intellectual with analytical skills, who could discuss virtually every subject matter to no end.
Tunde, a Harvard and King’s College alumnus, is survived by his wife, Natsu, daughter – Audrey – parents, brothers and sisters.
